JC Penney Is Better Than Kohl’s, But Not By Much!


Kohl’s refused to work with me after THE ONLY LATE PAYMENT IN 25+ YEARS partially as a result of their failure to send a bill or late notice, so we started shopping at JC Penney after a many year absence. It seemed like they were offering great prices between 2012 and 2013 in Kansas City, Missouri, but recently the “value” seems to have disappeared, at least here in Lawrence, Kansas.

The store here in Lawrence is dead as a ghost, so it is only a matter of time before this one-time giant goes belly-up like so many other retailers these days. Too bad because I do not buy clothes or shoes online because sizes vary so much and inevitably they do not fit once they arrive. 

Make sure you read the fine print on their coupons. It says 25% off on shoes, but in the fine print it says “athletic shoes excluded” … I didn’t have my glasses with me and made the trip across town for some much needed tennis shoes. What a waste of my time and gas!!!

CombatCritic Gives JC Penney (Lawrence, KS) A Lackluster 4 Out OF 10 Bombs … BOMBS ARE GOOD!







Key Words: JC Penney, JC, Penney, JC Penneys, Pennys, Penny’s, department store, department, store, clothes, clothing, shoes, purses, shop, shopping, Lawrence, Kansas, CombatCritic, TravelValue

U.R.U. Has A Little Bit Of Everything … For Everyone


A very nice antique and collectible shop in an old building on Mass Street between 11th and 12th Streets in downtown Lawrence.

As an avid collector and American and English antique auction veteran, I know quality and value when I see them. U.R.U. has a plethora of items, from vintage jewelry, books, and comics to Murano glass and antique furniture at reasonable prices.

Service with a big smile and convenient hours make browsing or shopping a delight. I will be back regularly as inventory is turned frequently. Grab a $2 taco at Fuzzy’s next door or take a walk in South Park just across the street while you are in the neighborhood .

CombatCritic Gives U.R.U. 9 Bombs Out of 10 … BOMBS ARE GOOD!

Key Words: U.R.U., URU, home, decor, antique, collectible, furniture, knickknacks, jewelry, vintage, clothing, glass, porcelain, CombatCritic, TravelValue, Lawrence, Kansas, 66044

A Friendly, Vibrant Vibe Awaits You at Mercado del Rio Piedras!


A Friendly, Vibrant Vibe Awaits You at Mercado del Rio Piedras!

Leaving the Rio Piedras train station, go straight one block to De Diego street, turn left, and go about 10 blocks. Mercado del Rio Piedras will be in your left. 


Occupying a full block, the market has fruit, vegetables, food stalls, clothing and sundry shops. Mostly locals, it’s a good place to escape tourists and get a cheap lunch!

Strictly locals, this market has a little of everything either inside the large mercado or in the surrounding shopping zone. Inexpensive food stalls, fruit and vegetables, clothing, toys, souvenirs, and a friendly, vibrant vibe await you in Mercado del Rio Piedras! If you want to escape tourists and find some great bargains, THIS IS A MUST SEE in San Juan!


CombatCritic Gives Mercado del Rio Piedras 9 Bombs Out of 10 … BOMBAS ARE BUENAS!

Key Words: Mercado del Rio Piedras, mercado, market, rio, piedras, river, stones, shopping, food, eat, clothing, shops, shoes, fruit, vegetables, San Juan, Puerto Rico, CombatCritic, TravelValue